The French government said more than 90 people have died by drowning since 19 June, as authorities and swimming bodies stepped up warnings during a summer marked by intense heat and more people seeking relief in rivers, lakes, canals and pools.
France's Sport and Youth Minister Marina Ferrari said on Thursday the death toll had risen sharply since the latest extreme heatwave began, calling the figure "worrying" and urging families, young people and local authorities to stay alert.
